Sally Gardner’s The Bride Stone is a captivating historical novel set in 1796. It combines suspense and romance against a backdrop of societal norms and personal secrets. The story revolves around Duval Harlington, who must marry within 24 hours to inherit his father’s estate. He impulsively buys Edmée Hyde, a widow, at a wife sale, setting the stage for a tense and mysterious relationship.

Duval and Edmée are both well-drawn characters. Duval is conflicted between desperation and duty, growing as he learns about trust. Edmée is resilient and mysterious, making her more than just a woman trapped by circumstances. Their relationship evolves from suspicion to something deeper, which is a big part of why the book is so engaging. Other characters add layers to the plot but the focus remains on the protagonists.

The novel explores themes like survival, social constraints, and the cost of keeping secrets. Gardner uses these to comment on current issues, like gender roles and how people protect their independence. The historical setting heightens these themes by immersing us in a world where personal freedom is often restricted by society.

Gardner’s writing is vivid and tense, capturing the story's urgency. Her language is authentic to the period but still easy to understand. The narrative structure maintains suspense while allowing character introspection.

The book stands out in its ability to take readers to a different era while tackling timeless human issues. The historical detail creates a rich atmosphere but never overshadows the emotional heart of the story. Gardner weaves these elements together expertly, creating a novel that feels personal and expansive.

The Bride Stone is a memorable read that balances suspense with emotional depth. Its exploration of trust and survival encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences. Gardner delivers a story that stays with readers long after they finish the book.

I read with increasing interest this romantic novel set in the eighteenth century. The romance is between a French lady and Lord Harlington. Lord Harlington has to buy a bride at a wife sale in order to fulfil the terms of his father's will. If he doesn't do that he will lose his inheritance. The story develops from that point, but I am not going to spoil it by saying any more about it. I can only say that there are well drawn characters in the book and the novel was such a page turner that I had to finish it as quickly as possible. Highly recommended. I have never been disappointed in Sally Gardner's novels and this book was no exception.